With the inauguration of the renovated Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at “Tikur Anbessa” (Black Lion) Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Italy brings a new beginning for newborn care in Ethiopia.
Implemented by the Italian NGO Doctors with Africa CUAMM, with funding from the Italian Development Cooperation (AICS), the intervention is part of the broader Italian-funded programme “Strengthening Neonatology in Ethiopia”, aimed at improving access to high-quality neonatal care through infrastructure rehabilitation, equipment provision, and capacity building for health professionals.
In his opening remarks, the Ambassador of Italy to Ethiopia, Sem Fabrizi, who took part in the inauguration – alongside the CEO of the Hospital, the President of Addis Ababa University, the Director of the AICS Office in Addis Ababa, and representatives from the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and CUAMM, emphasised that “Today, we celebrate not only the completion of a renovation, but a renewed commitment to the most vulnerable patients, newborns who depend on timely, safe, and high-quality care to survive and thrive, in line with Italy’s long-standing commitment in the Ethiopian health sector”.
The intervention included upgrades to the electrical and water systems, renovation of floors and critical infrastructure, and installation of dedicated support systems to ensure the unit can operate safely and continuously. Italy has long been a committed partner of Ethiopia in the health sector, supporting national efforts to strengthen healthcare systems through investments in hospital rehabilitation, maternal and child health, emergency response, medical training, and capacity building across the country. This initiative reflects the long-standing partnership between Italy and Ethiopia in the health sector and our shared commitment to investing in life, dignity, and the future.
